Embryonic Stem Cells as a Module for Systems Biology - Systems Biology: Networks, Models, and Applications - page 301

Figure 10.4a Ingenuity analysis of six networks (N1 to N6) identified from
analysis of 332 ES genes. Each of the six networks is highly connected within
its members and overlaps minimally with each other. We indicate the hub-like
center(s) of each network in larger font ( p53 , RARA , MYC , CASP3 , FOS , SP1 ).
© 2000-2005 Ingenuity Systems.
an additional search for canonical pathways that may be buried within
the network containing the key ES transcriptional factor, Oct4 , the pro-
gram suggested and displayed relationships between c-myc (cell cycle
control gene), Oct4 transcription factor, and the Wnt signaling pathway
(figure 10.4c). This is significant as the Wnt pathway represents a con-
served family of secreted proteins involved in various embryonic and
adult tissues' function, including proliferation, survival, differentia-
tion, and motility [16]. Defects in Wnt pathways have been implicated
in development of human disease such as many types of cancer and
bone and retinal vascular disorders [17]. Furthermore, the Wnt path-
way appears to be critical in the early stages of ES cell self-renewal and
initiation of differentiation [18,19].